Main navigation

The 10 Best Destinations for Adventurous Couples Traveling the World by Bike

Traveling with a significant other is an adventure in and of itself, but adding a little adrenaline can definitely bring you closer than ever before. Whether you choose to climb a mountain, bungee jump or raft down a river, these 10 worldwide destinations are the absolute best for adventurous couples.

1. Machu Picchu, Peru

At nearly 8,000 feet above sea level, Machu Picchu is an adventurer’s dream. While it’s easily reachable by railway, couples should hike the strenuous Inca Trail to reach the heritage site. You’ll bond while supporting each other on the 26-mile trail that winds through the jungle, mountainous areas and Incan ruins before dropping you at the Lost City of the Incas. With sweeping views of green hillsides and ancient stone buildings, the arduous multi-day hike is well worth it.

2. Belize

Combine island adventures with historical hikes in Central America with a trip to Belize. Go snorkeling together at the Belize Barrier Reef, an area filled with coral, fish and invertebrates, and visit the nearby Great Blue Hole. Belize is also ideal for kayaking, sailing, inner tubing and zip lining. But don’t forget about hiking in the jungle to visit Mayan ruins as well.

3. Yellowstone and Grand Teton, Wyoming, U.S.A.

With Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks right next to each other, couples can enjoy endless outdoor exploits without leaving western Wyoming. Hike, bike or camp in the backcountry or up the parks’ peaks for prime wildlife or waterfall viewing, but also try your hand at sailing, paddleboarding, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, fly fishing or horseback riding.

4. Morocco

Located between Europe and Africa, Morocco has a culture all its own, one that lends itself perfectly to adventure. Couples can combine adventure with romance, relaxing together at mountain lodges in the High Atlas at night and exploring the desert by day. Ride camels over the Sahara Desert, dune board across the sandy slopes or see how fast you can go on rugged quad bikes.

5. Thailand

Thailand is the perfect blend of small villages, ornate temples and nature, making it the ideal country for adventurous couples. City cycling tours and off-road mountain biking are popular pastimes for tourists and locals alike, but Northern Thailand’s remote natural environment is also great for kayaking, whitewater rafting, caving, ziplining and even waterfall abseiling, plus you can ride elephants!

6. Rome, Italy

One of the more unexpected destinations on this list, Rome is obviously a great place for historical travel, but also provides adventures for couples to take advantage of. Less than an hour outside the city, hop on a hot air balloon for scenic views of Lazio, tranquil floating and an overall romantic experience. Couples can also rent scooters and take to the streets of Rome for an adrenaline-filled city adventure.

7. Zimbabwe

While many may recommend other African countries for couples adventures, Zimbabwe is a delightfully perfect, albeit unexpected, destination. Endless adventures await at Victoria Falls, where couples can zip line, bungee jump or surf in the river. The country is also home to Hwange National Park, where guests can spot elephants, lions, leopards and rhinos.

8. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Due to the recent Olympic games, everyone has Rio on the brain right now, but it is actually a great city for adventurous couples. Offering tandem hang gliding and parachuting right over the city itself, it’s a very unique spot. Also consider mountain climbing, waterfall rappelling, ocean canoeing, scuba diving and surfing while in Rio.

9. Finland

Those interested in winter adventure travel should consider a romantic trip to Finland. By day, dogsledding is an absolute must. Other outdoor adventures include skiing, snowmobiling, figure skating and even ice fishing. By night, get romantic with a stay in an actual igloo and chances to see the gorgeous Northern Lights.

10. New Zealand

With towering mountain ranges, crystal clear lakes and fresh green meadows, New Zealand is known for its natural beauty, something that couples can take in together. Adventures include swimming with dolphins, climbing glaciers, black water rafting, caving, skydiving, biking and sandboarding.